John Brekke

1949 - 2013

John Edward Brekke

Kalispell —John Edward Brekke passed away suddenly October 31, 2013. John was born December 25, 1949 to Ralph and Ruth Brekke spending his childhood in Chinook, MT. He was the youngest of four children, brother Bob and sisters Barbara and Gini. John graduated from Montana State University with a degree in Psychology. In 1973 John married the love of his life, Nancy Fuller, in Kalispell, MT in the Woodland Park flower garden.

In 1976 John went to work at the Swan River Youth Camp where he implemented the 12 step AA program combined with wilderness expeditions. One of his greatest joys was the arrival of his three "little boys" - Matthew in 1976, Brian in 1978 and Robert Marshall in 1980.

His dream was to start a rehabilitation program of his own and this dream was realized in 1983 when he met his wonderful long time partners Lou and Gloria Flanders who owned a working dude ranch in Marion, MT. 30 years later Wilderness Treatment Center is still operating and helping adolescents and young adults on their road to recovery. John was very proud of the 30 year mark this year and all the staff and people who continue to make the center such a success.

His spiritual well-being originated through his love of the outdoors and wilderness. He had discovered complete happiness and peace in his life knowing he had accomplished all of his hopes and dreams - a wonderful wife and family, great friends, a successful business and hunting and fishing adventures all over the world with his sons. He had no regrets in life and mentioned this often.

John passed away doing what he loved most - hunting pheasants in his favorite place, with his best friends, and dog Shilo, his beloved hunting companion. The family has found some peace knowing that before his heart gave way, he shot his last pheasant and was found with Shilo proudly sitting next to him with the bird in his mouth. One final retrieve for John.

John is survived by his wife Nancy, sons Matthew and Robert Marshall as well as many other caring family members and friends. The family would like to thank all that have loved John so much and supported the family through this terrible loss. He will be missed as a great friend and husband and a true hero to his sons. He is now reunited with his son Brian.

Brief graveside services will be held at C.E. Conrad Memorial Cemetery in Kalispell, MT on Thursday, November 7th at 2:00 p.m. followed by a time of celebration and memories at the Red Lion Hotel at 3:30. Visitation will be at Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home on Wednesday, November 6, 2013 from 4:00pm to 7:00pm.

The family suggests contributions to one of the following organizations: The Bob Marshall Wilderness Foundation: PO Box 190688, Hungry Horse, MT 59919; this connects Americans with their wilderness heritage by providing access to and stewardship of one of the world's most spectacular places or to the Braveheart Chaplain Ministry: PO Box 7217, Kalispell, MT 59904 (designate through the United Way for Braveheart); this serves law enforcement and fire department staff as well as citizens experiencing a life-changing crisis.

Johnson - Gloschat Funeral Home and Crematory is caring for John's family. You are invited to www.jgfuneralhome.com to view John's tribute wall, offer condolences and share memories.